Why does my contact grill leave dark scorch marks on bread before the filling is warm?

If the outside of a sandwich browns or scorches before the filling is properly warmed, the grill is usually set too hot for the food being cooked, or the sandwich is too thick or unevenly filled. Stop using the grill if burning continues at a normal preheat stage, the plates appear damaged, or the casing smells strongly of overheating. If you cannot get safe, even results, contact the retailer or store where it was purchased.

Check the heat level and preheat time

1. Preheat the grill until the ready light shows it is ready, if your model has one.
2. Place one sandwich in the centre and close the lid gently.
3. Remove it earlier than usual and check whether the browning is still too fast.

If your model has an adjustable thermostat, choose a lower setting for filled breads and repeat the test. If there is no adjustable thermostat, shorter cooking times and lighter fillings may help.

Adjust the food itself

1. Use thinner fillings so heat can reach the centre more easily.
2. Butter or oil only the outer surface lightly, not heavily.
3. Keep the bread evenly filled so one side does not overcook first.

A very full sandwich can brown quickly on the outside while staying cool in the middle.

Stop using the grill if

• the bread burns even on the lowest practical setting
• the thermostat, ready light or heating behaviour seems abnormal
• there is smoke that does not clear when the food is removed

Try a simple test with plain bread or a smaller filling to separate food-related causes from a possible appliance fault. If it still happens, the retailer can explain the available next steps.